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Most Reverend Bishop Michael F. Burbidge
Porto Charities
and Honorary Chairs Carlos and Elsa Velez
Invite you to
Embrace
Porto Charities Advocacy Awards Gala
April 24, 2026
Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles
Benefiting Youth with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in the Diocese of Arlington
We are pleased to announce that we are hosting our 4th Annual Advocacy Awards Gala.
The Gala is Porto Charities' signature event, where the Diocese of Arlington comes together to recognize and celebrate advocates for inclusion of people with disabilities in our parishes, schools, workplaces, and communities. At the Gala, we will honor outstanding advocates in 6 categories: Educator, Employer, Peer Mentor, School, Self-Advocate, and the Porto Charities Catalyst Award.
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Event Information
Detailed Sponsorship Information
Diamond
$25,000
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Reservations for ten guests at one table with premium seating.
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Recognition from the Podium
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Half-page advertising in the Gala program.
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Highlighted on the Gala website, program, and social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube & LinkedIn).
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Table Signage.
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Tax Benefits = $23,000
Bronze
$3,500
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Reservations for ten guests at one table.
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Listed on the Gala website and program.
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Table Signage.
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Tax Benefits = $1,500
Platinum
$15,000
-
Reservations for ten guests at one table with premium seating.
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Half-page advertising in the Gala program.
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Highlighted on the Gala website, program, and social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube & LinkedIn).
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Table Signage.
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Tax Benefits = $13,000
Patron
$2,000
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Underwrite a table for youth with disabilities, their parents, and educators (all 10 guests will be selected at the discretion of Porto Charities).
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Highlighted on the Gala website and program.
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Table Signage.
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Tax Benefits = $2,000
Gold
$10,000
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Reservations for ten guests at one table.
-
Half-page advertising in the Gala program.
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Highlighted on the Gala website, program, and social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube & LinkedIn).
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Table Signage.
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Tax Benefits = $8,000
Supporter
$1,000
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Reservations for two guests at one table
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Listed on the Gala website and program.
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Table Signage
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Tax Benefits = $600
Silver
$5,000
-
Reservations for ten guests at one table.
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Quarter-page advertising in the Gala program.
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Highlighted on the Gala website and social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube & LinkedIn).
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Table Signage.
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Tax Benefits = $3,000
Friend
$500
A donation to the gala.
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Listed on the gala website and program.
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Tax Benefits = $500
Honorary Chairs:
Carlos & Elsa Velez​
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Event Chairs:
Stew McHie and Ellie Winn
Steering Committee
Leo Alonso
Kathryn Doherty
Marianne Downs
Christine Fowler
Stew McHie
Anita Phares
Guadalupe Williamson
Auction Committee Chair
Kim Perry
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Nominations Committee Chair
Carmen Chiappetta
Board of Directors
Leo Alonso, President
Tony Stafford, Vice President
John Reidt, Treasurer
Maureen Ashby, Secretary
Justin Wilcox, Governance
Jerry Pelano, Development
Christine Fowler, Employment Chair
Art Bennett
Dan Braun
Patrick Cross
Sheila Earhardt
Therese Fimian
Paul Frommelt
Dave Hoppe
Stew McHie
Richard Milone
Fr. Rich Miserendino
Robert Mueller
Dan O'Donohue
Jay Sciuto
Dear Friends in Christ,
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At Porto Charities, we believe every child of God deserves a place to belong. We invite you to join us in our mission to provide children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to receive an inclusive Catholic education, find meaningful employment, and experience true belonging within our community.
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While the desire for inclusive opportunities in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington is growing, many of our schools and parishes still lack the resources to meet this need. Your support helps us bridge that gap.
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Please join us in person on Friday, April 24, 2026, for Embrace: The 4th Annual Porto Charities Advocacy Awards Gala.
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This evening, we will celebrate those who have made a profound impact on inclusion. We are honored to present Advocacy Awards to an outstanding Educator, Employer, Peer Mentor, School, and Self-Advocate. In addition, we will present the Catalyst Award to Susan Rinaldi for her visionary leadership and lifelong dedication to inclusive Catholic education.
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The evening’s program will feature an awards ceremony presented by the Most Rev. Michael F. Burbidge, Bishop of Arlington, and Leo Alonso, President of Porto Charities, followed by dinner and dancing.
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Ticket and sponsorship opportunities are available on this page. If you are unable to attend, we would be deeply grateful for your prayers and financial support.
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Thank you for your commitment to all of God’s children. May the Holy Spirit embrace you for your generous heart.
Questions?
Please contact us at events@portocharities.org